Trees can be left out for collection alongside green bins on revised collection days from Wednesday 2 January 2019. They will then be given a second life as compost.

All decorations, as well as any pots or stands, should be removed. Tree trunks bigger than four inches in diameter will not be accepted for collection, but can be disposed of at Barleylands Recycling Centre.

Cllr Kevin Blake, Chairman of the Leisure, Culture and Environment Committee, said: "As you prepare to celebrate New Year and mark the end of the festive season, it's time to think about what happens to your old Christmas tree. Real Christmas trees can be easily composted, so please make sure you dispose of yours correctly by using our free collection service.

"We are committed to working with the community to make positive environmental choices over the festive period and urge residents to recycle as much as possible, including using their orange box for empty bottles and jars and pink sacks for cardboard packaging."